Main Round Group II play starts in Malmo. Thanks to Denmark’s early exit Sweden should have a solid home crowd behind them. Can it propel them to the Finals in Stockolm?
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with the first matches of Main Round Group II. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
16:00 Slovenia (-1.5) vs Iceland Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
18:15 Norway (-4.5) vs Hungary Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
20:30 Sweden (-3) vs Portugal Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
Main Round Group II starts today with pre-tournament favorites Denmark and France… at home thanks to Hungary and Portugal, respectively. The day’s action starts with Slovenia (now a slight favorite to make the semifinals) facing Iceland. Norway (now the Group favorite) faces giant killers, Hungary. Sweden, which suffered an earlier loss vs Slovenia, also now has realistic dreams of reaching the semifinals and takes on Portugal.
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 873.94 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Alternate point spread; Germany (-3.5) vs Belarus 2.1/+110; Bet 100 Euros to win 110 ; Won 110 Euros as Germany dominated the match from start to finish for a 31-23 victory. Sometimes it just seems all too easy. – Today’s Pick: Iceland (+1.5) vs Slovenia 1.82/-121; Bet 100 Euros to win 82.64; In preliminary play Iceland beat Denmark (31-30) and Russia (34-23) and seemed well on their way to another win vs Hungary… Then a disastrous 2nd half saw them score only 6 goals and they loss 24-18. I think that was just an erratic blip and Aron Palmarsson will come back in fine form today. Slovenia took 3 wins in Group play, but I think their group was weaker. At best this game should be a pickem. I’ll take the Slovenia and the bonus 1.5 goals.
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,249.61 Euros – Yesterday’s Results: Czech LW, Jakub Hrstka (under 3.5 goals) (1.76/-130); Bet 100 Euros to win 76.92. Win 76.92 Euros as Hrstka scored only 1 goal. – Today’s Pick: Race to 30 goals; Norway 2.45/+155; (Norway scores 30 goals first) Bet 200 Euros to win 290; Norway have the best attack at the moment and their transition from defense to offense is really amazing. I just don’t see how can Hungary stop them. Sagosen is in great form and this young team from Hungary will have a lot of problems in defense today. Sipos is only playing in defense and this will hurt them as there just won’t be enough time to get him on the cour. Norway should score 30+ today.
Main Round play starts in Vienna: The Czech Republic suffered a 17 point loss two years ago to Spain. Can they fare better this time around.
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with the first matches of Main Round Group I. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
16:00 Spain (-6.5) vs Czech Republic Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
18:15 Croatia (-3.5) vs Austria Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
20:30 Germany (-2.5) vs Belarus Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
Main Round Group I starts today with the pre-tournament favorites (Spain, Germany and Croatia) all favored to pick up wins. Spain is hugely favored over the Czech Republic, but Croatia could get a strong challenge from hosts, Austria, in Vienna. Belarus has also played well so far in the tournament and it will be interesting to see how they fare against a German side that struggled a bit in the preliminary round.
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 763.94 Euros – Tuesday’s Result: Czech Republic (-2.5) vs Ukraine; Wager 100 Euros to win 82.64; Won 82.64 Euros as the Czech Republic pulled away at the end for a 23-19 win. – Today’s Pick: Alternate point spread; Germany (-3.5) vs Belarus 2.1/+110; Bet 100 Euros to win 110; Germany was unimpressive in the preliminary round and they are a more capable side than they’ve shown. A better defensive performance should lead to a comfortable win.
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,172.69 Euros – Tuesday’s Results: Bet 1: Switzerland’s Marvin Lier under 3.5 goals scored (+100/2.0) Bet 100 Euros to win 100; Lier scored 3 goals- Win 100 Euros Bet 2: Blaz Janc under 4.5 goals scored (-120/1.83); Bet 100 Euros to win 83.33; Janc scored 4 goals- win 83.33 Bet 3: Poland-Sweden; Over 54.5 goals (-114/1.87); Bet 100 Euros to win 87.71: Final score: SWE 28 – POL 26 for 54 goals. Lose 100 Euros – Today’s Pick: Czech LW, Jakub Hrstka (under 3.5 goals) (1.76/-130); Bet 100 Euros to win 76.92; It will be very interesting to see the Czech attack against this great defense that Spain is playing. I don’t think they will be successful today as they didn’t convince me in the preliminary round where they played against average teams. Spain will be on different level and I don’t see Hrstka scoring 4 goals.
A win today by Hungary will knock Denmark out of the competition.
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships has a light day with only the final 2 matches Group A. All of the other Preliminary Round Groups have concluded play and Main Round Group play starts tomorrow. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
18:15 Hungary vs Iceland (-2.5) Match Video (On Demand) Link: Commentary: Paul Bray)
20:30 Denmark (-7.5) vs Russia Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
Group E concludes today and there’s some real suspense. In the first match Iceland will have the pseudo Danish home crowd in Malmo behind them as they take on Hungary. This is because a win by Hungary will shockingly eliminate the current World Champions from the tournament. Iceland has already qualified, but they would prefer to win and take the 2 points from their big win over Denmark with them to the Main Round. After this match Denmark will be big favorites over Russia. Note: there is also an unlikely scenario involving 1 goal wins: Link
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 763.94 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Czech Republic (-2.5) vs Ukraine; Wager 100 Euros to win 82.64; Won 82.64 Euros as the Czech Republic pulled away at the end for a 23-19 win. – Today’s Pick: No picks today.
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,172.69 Euros – Yesterday’s Results: Bet 1: Switzerland’s Marvin Lier under 3.5 goals scored (+100/2.0) Bet 100 Euros to win 100; Lier scored 3 goals- Win 100 Euros Bet 2: Blaz Janc under 4.5 goals scored (-120/1.83); Bet 100 Euros to win 83.33; Janc scored 4 goals- win 83.33 Bet 3: Poland-Sweden; Over 54.5 goals (-114/1.87); Bet 100 Euros to win 87.71: Final score: SWE 28 – POL 26 for 54 goals. Lose 100 Euros – Today’s Picks: No picks today.
Macedonia needs a two goal victory today over hosts, Austria, in order to make the Main Round. Just part of the complicated math in Group B.
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with the final 6 matches from Groups B, D and F. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
18:15 Austria (-1.5) vs N. Macedonia Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
20:30 Czech Republic (-2.5) vs Ukraine Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)
If you’re looking for drama with every team having a chance to qualify, look no further. Here’s the current standings.
And, what are the scenarios for advancing? It’s complicated, and got its own article to explain: Link
Group D (Trondheim, Norway)
18:15 Bosnia & Herzegovina vs France (-5.5) Match Video (On Demand): Link ( Commentary: Paul Bray )
20:30 Norway (-5.5) vs Portugal Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
Well, if at the start of the tournament somebody told me that the France-Bosnia game would have no bearing on which teams went through I wouldn’t have been surprised. Just mighty France resting some players after beating Portugal and Norway. Of course, the opposite is true in reality. Meanwhile, Portugal and Norway will essentially play their first Main Round match. Who would have thunk it?
Group F (Gothenburg, Sweden)
18:15 Switzerland vs Slovenia (-4.5) Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)
20:30 Sweden (-6) vs Poland Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
Here’s the current standings:
In theory, every team can advance today, but the scenarios for Switzerland require and Poland require some big upsets and some big margins of victory. Barring some crazy outcomes Slovenia and Sweden will advance today. The scenarios are here: Link
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 681.30 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Belarus (-2.5) vs Montenegro. Bet 100 Euros to win 81.30. Won 81.30 as Belarus easily won 36-27. I guess I should have gone with that alternative point spread. – Today’s Pick: Czech Republic (-2.5) vs Ukraine; Bet 100 Euros to win 82.64; I think the Czech Republic is clearly a better team than the Ukraine. And, with advancing to the Main Round on the line they will seek to put Ukraine out of the match early. My only second thoughts; The outcome of the first match. A Macedonian victory over Austria could possibly render the match meaningless to the Czech Republic. (and… if one were to make a bet after that match quickly it might be a smart opportunity)
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,089.36 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Two event parlay; Belarus to win (-370/1.27) vs Montenegro (Tie is no bet) and NL (+10.5 goals) vs Spain (-265/1.37); Wager 100 Euros to win 74. Lost 100 Euros The perils of parlay bets. Belarus came through, but the Netherlands lost 36-25. One measly half goal. – Today’s Picks: Group F is all but decided and because of this I see several nice opportunities there:
Bet 1: Switzerland’s Marvin Lier under 3.5 goals scored (+100/2.0) Bet 100 Euros to win 100; I don’t think Switzerland will be getting a lot of fast breaks today. It also looks like Schmid is taking the penalty shots now so I don’t see how Lier can score 4+ against probably the best defense in the tournament so far.
Bet 2: Slovenia’s Blaz Janc under 4.5 goals scored (-120/1.83); Bet 100 Euros to win 83.33; In the first two matches Slovenia played with a pretty limited roster so today we should see some new rotations. RW, Blaz Janc, is a key player for Slovenia and he needs a bit of rest before the important Main Round games. Šoštaric is also a solid RW and I expect that Vranješ will give him at least 20 minutes today.
Bet 3: Poland-Sweden; Over 54.5 goals (-114/1.87); Bet 100 Euros to win 87.71; Slovenia should win the first match over Switzerland, so we can say Sweden is already in Main Round as they won’t lose by 11+ goals (the only way for Poland to advance to the Main Round). Sweden loves to play fast handball and we should see a lot of goals in game where the result is not important. Especially after they scored just 19 against Slovenia, they need to gain some confidence, fans love fast handball as well so I think 54.5 is a bit too low of a line for such match.
Montenegro celebrates after their win vs Serbia. Today they take on Belarus for a spot in the Main Round.
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with 2 matches each from Groups A, C and E. Groups A and C conclude today while Group E finishes up on Wednesday. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
18:15 Montenegro vs Belarus (-2.5) Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)
20:30 Serbia vs Croatia (-5.5) Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
Croatia has already qualified for the main round and Serbia has been eliminated so their match will have no impact. Either Montenegro or Belarus will join Croatia and their match will decide who goes through. Belarus can win or draw while Montenegro needs to win the match.
Group C (Trondheim, Norway)
18:15 Latvia vs Germany (-9) Match Video ( On Demand ): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
20:30 Spain (-8.5) vs Netherlands Match Video ( On Demand ): Link (No Commentary)
On paper no team in Group C has either qualified or been eliminated from going through to the Main Round. But, in reality it would take some pretty surprising results for either Spain or Germany to not qualify. Spain would actually have to lose by 10 to the Netherlands to not qualify. Germany would have to first lose or draw to Latvia and then have the Netherlands beat Spain. Finally, Latvia’s qualification scenario really stretches credibility. They would need a 10 goal win over Germany and a Netherlands loss to Spain.
Group E (Malmo, Sweden)
18:15 Iceland (-3.5) vs Russia Match Video ( On Demand ): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
20:30 Denmark (-6) vs Hungary Match Video ( On Demand ): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
Group E has only played one round, so every side still has something to play for. In fact, after Iceland’s surprising win over Denmark, Denmark actually is essentially in a must win situation vs Hungary.
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’ll be doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me is professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 600 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Alternative point spread: Norway (-3.5 goals) vs France; Lost 100 Euros as France put up a good fight losing 28-26. For a moment there at the end when Norway went up 3 I thought my big, break even bet was going to come through… Oh, well. – Today’s Pick: Belarus (-2.5) vs Montenegro. Bet 100 Euros to win 81.30. I totally concur with Samo (see below) that Belarus is simply the better team here and will advance to the main round. Heck, I’m tempted to go big with an alternative point spread, but I’m still licking my wounds from yesterday. Therefore, I will simply go with the 50-50 point spread.
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,189.36 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Money Line bet Czech Republic (+130) v N. Macedonia; Wager 100 Euros to win 130. Won 130 Euros as the Czech Republic rallied for a 27-25 victory. – Today’s Picks: Two event parlay; Belarus to win (-370/1.27) vs Montenegro (Tie is no bet) and NL (+10.5 goals) vs Spain (-265/1.37); Wager 100 Euros to win 74 (both outcomes must come through). Belarus is just a better team than Montenegro and should win this match. They just need a point and they will advance to Main Round. The Netherlands is playing solid handball and I also expect Spain will rest some key players as they only need to not lose today by 10 goals and they will advance with 2 points.
End of an era? France faces a must win situation against Norway.
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with 2 matches each from Groups B, D and F. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
16:00 Czech Republic vs N. Macedonia (-0.5) Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)
18:15 Austria (-4) vs Ukraine Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)
The Czech Republic and N. Macedonia meet first in a match that could decide who goes through to the Main Round while Austria will be in good shape to qualify with a win over Ukraine.
Group D (Trondheim, Norway)
16:00 Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Portugal (-4.5) Match Video (On Demand): Link ( Commentary: Paul Bray )
18:15 Norway vs France (Pick em) Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
Upstarts Portugal will look to go 2-0-0 vs Bosnia and then will watch the Norway vs France with a keen eye as to what it will mean for the final match day. The Norway vs France match could be epic. France is in a must win situation and arguably it is in a must win by 3 or 4 goals situation. The math is a little complicated, but if one envisions a 3-way tie (level on 4 pts) between France, Norway and Portugal goal differential in their 3 matches will be the decider. And, following their 3 goal loss to Portugal they are in a bit of a hole. A 4 goal win guarantees advancing and a 3 goal win probably does. And, they could also advance with a 2 or 1 goal victory, or even a draw, but they will want to win by more goals. But, can they even beat Norway in front of a hostile crowd? (see below for my prediction.)
Group F (Gothenburg, Sweden)
16:00 Switzerland (-2.5) vs Poland Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
18:15 Sweden (-2) vs Slovenia Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
Switzerland was man handled by Sweden (a 13 goal loss), but will seek to rebound against Poland. Sweden and Slovenia meet in a match that may carry through to the Main Round.
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’re doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 700 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Germany (+190) money line bet to win vs Spain; Wagered 100 Euros to win 190. Lost 100 Euros as Spain dominated the match from start to finish for a 33-26 victory. – Today’s Pick: Alternative point spread: Norway (-3.5 goals) vs France; Wager 100 Euros to win 300. France’s 28-25 loss to Portugal on Friday might was one of the most lackluster, lifeless defeats I’ve ever seen for this storied side that’s won so many titles. Time and time again, though, France has rebounded from such poor performances. But… this is not the French team of old. Nikola Karabatic may be the GOAT, but at 35 with a bum foot he looks more like Tom Brady hanging around for one more season. Perhaps, I’m chasing my losses and reading too much into one really bad loss. Perhaps… But, something tells me this is an end of an era. A really good Norway team playing in front of a roaring crowd. A really good Norway team knowing that a loss here could put them out of the semifinals. I don’t think this French team has it in them and I think this game could get out of hand which is why I’m taking the alternative spread.
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,059.36 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Netherlands (-130) money line bet to win vs Latvia; Wager 100 Euros to win 79.36. Won 79.36 Euros as Netherlands dominated the match for a 32-24 victory. – Today’s Pick: Money Line bet Czech Republic (+130) v N. Macedonia; Wager 100 Euros to win 130. I am going with Czech Republic again. Against Austria their GKs had just 3!! saves. That and a bit of help from the refs is why Austria won that match. Kiril Lazarov saved North Macedonia in the last seconds against Ukraine which is probably the worst team in the tournament. For me, the Czech Republic are favorites here and if their GK, Mrkva, can save more than 6% of shots, they should take an important 2 points today.
Spain’s Joan Canellas thinks today’s match vs Germany could go either way.
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with 2 matches each from Groups A, C and E. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
16:00 Croatia (-3) vs Belarus Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)
18:15 Montenegro vs Serbia (-.5) Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)
Croatia and Belarus both won their openers comfortably, so today’s result could very well count in the Main Round standings. Montenegro and Serbia will play what is likely an elimination match
Group C (Trondheim, Norway)
16:00 Latvia vs Netherlands (-1) Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
18:15 Spain (-1.5) vs Germany Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
Latvia and the Netherlands will both be gunning for their first ever European Championships while Spain and Germany play the match of the day. This result will surely count in the main round and the winner will even be well positioned to make the semifinals.
Group E (Malmo, Sweden)
16:00 Hungary vs Russia (-1) Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
18:15 Denmark (-5) vs Iceland Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
Group E has its first matches of the tournament. The matches will be played in Malmo, which is just across the bridge from Copenhagen so expect a good Danish crowd.
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’ll be doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me is professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 800 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Norway (-7.5 goals) vs Bosnia; Wager 100 Euros to win 80. Lost 100 Euros as Bosnia’s GK, Buric was sharp in goal and Norway got off to a slow start resulting in just a 6 goal, 32-26 victory. – Today’s Pick: Germany (+190) money line bet to win vs Spain; Wager 100 Euros to win 190. Spain and Germany meet for a crucial match that will give the winner one foot into the semifinals. Spain’s Joan Canellas says it’s a 50-50 match. I concur and +190 is too good of an advantage to pass up on a match that I genuinely think could go either way.
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 980 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Czech Republic (+1) v Austria; Wager 100 Euros to win 90. Lost 100 Euros as Austria won 32-29. – Today’s Pick: Netherlands (-130) money line bet to win vs Latvia; Wager 100 Euros to win 79.36. I don’t like one man teams and Latvia is for sure one of them. Kristopans is an amazing player, but the European Championship is the best competition in the world and you need more than one player to win games in this tournament. I really like the Netherlands here; they are playing modern handball; they look like a team and I believe they will collect 2 points today.
Will Austria’s home court advantage see them through to the Main Round? Maybe, Maybe not. They face the Czech Republic in their opener today.
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships continues today with 2 matches each from Groups B, D and F. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
IMPORTANT STEPS TO FOLLOW FOR “SPOILER FREE” ON DEMAND VIDEO WATCHING: 1) Cover up the right half of your screen 2) Click on the desired “On Demand” video link 3) Watch the short advertisement 4) Click on the full screen icon in the lower right hand corner of the video 5) Enjoy the match “spoiler free”
Note: If you don’t follow these instructions you will be exposed to the menu on the right side of your screen that may include words like “Netherlands shocks Germany in Opener!” (I’m not saying that’s going to happen, just that if it did happen, you can bet there would be a headline stating that.) Also, remember that if you click out of full screen mode you should also cover up the right side since that menu will immediately appear.
Friday, 10 January All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs) Odds courtesy of 10Bet
18:15 Czech Republic vs Austria (-1) vs Serbia Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
2030 N Macedonia (-4) vs Ukraine Match Video (On Demand): Link (No Commentary)
Group D (Trondheim, Norway)
18:15 France (-7) vs Portugal Match Video (On Demand): Link(No Commentary)
2030 Norway (-7.5) vs Bosnia & Herzegovina Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
Group F (Gothenburg, Sweden)
18:15 Slovenia (-7) vs Poland Match Video (On Demand): Link(Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
2030 Sweden (-5.5) vs Switzerland Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’ll be doing some betting predictions using an imaginary starting bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 900 Euros – Yesterday’s Result: Netherlands (+7.5 goals) vs Germany; Lost 100 Euros as Germany won 34-23 (It was a great bet for 45 minutes…) – Today’s Pick: Norway (-7.5 goals) vs Bosnia; Wager 100 Euros to win 80. With the home crowd behind them in Trondheim and a big match looming vs France on Sunday, Norway will seek to put away this game early.
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,080 Euros – Yesterday’s Result Handicap Bet: Croatia (-5.5) vs Montenegro; Wager 100 Euros to win 80. Croat eked out a 27-21 win. Doesn’t matter how… They got it done. – Today’s Pick: Czech Republic (+1) v Austria; Wager 100 Euros to win 90. I don’t think home advantage + Bilyk will be enough for Austria. The Czech Republic is playing decent handball lately and they have a lot of quality with Kasparek, Zdrahala and Horak. Austria is without Hermann which is big blow imo. Half of the Austrian team is playing in Austrian league, while half of the Czech Republic players are playing in Germany. And there is huge difference between those two countries.
The 2020 Men’s European Handball Championships start today with 4 matches. Here are the video links, odds and some predictions for those matches.
IMPORTANT STEPS TO FOLLOW FOR “SPOILER FREE” ON DEMAND VIDEO WATCHING: 1) Cover up the right half of your screen 2) Click on the desired “On Demand” video link 3) Watch the short advertisement 4) Click on the full screen icon in the lower right hand corner of the video 5) Enjoy the match “spoiler free”
Note: If you don’t follow these instructions you will be exposed to the menu on the right side of your screen that may include words like “Netherlands shocks Germany in Opener!” (I’m not saying that’s going to happen, just that if it did happen, you can bet there would be a headline stating that.) Also, remember that if you click out of full screen mode you should also cover up the right side since that menu will immediately appear.
Thursday, 9 January All Times Local (CET) / US ET is -6 hrs) Odds courtesy of 10Bet
18:15 Belarus (-2.5) vs Serbia Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas)
2030 Croatia (-5.5) vs Montenegro Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Clayton Lucas) Match Video (On Demand): Link
Group A starts with a match between Belarus and Serbia that might end up deciding 2nd place in the Group. Croatia is the favorite in the group and should have no problem with Montenegro.
Group C (Trondheim, Norway)
18:15 Germany (-7.5) vs Netherlands Match Video (On Demand): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray)
2030 Spain (-10.5) vs Latvia Match Video (Live): Link (Commentary: Paul Bray) Match Video (On Demand): Link
Germany and Spain are heavy favorites to advance from this group. If there’s going to be a surprise, though, in Group C it will probably take place today.
Betting Predictions
For this tournament we’ll be doing some betting predictions using an imaginary bankroll of a 1,000 Euros. Joining me will be professional handball bettor, Samo Košmerl, from Slovenia.
John’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,000 Euros – Handicap Bet: Netherlands (+7.5 goals) vs Germany; Wager 100 Euros to win 79.36. The Netherlands will be debuting in the competition and have several players playing in Germany. They won’t be in awe and will play with an emotional high. They’ll keep it close, but is will slip away towards the end.
Samo’s Pick(s): – Current Bankroll: 1,000 Euros – Handicap Bet: Croatia (-5.5) vs Montenegro; Wager 100 Euros to win 80. The first match is always very important for Croatia and there should be a lot of Croatian fans in Graz. Montenegro is missing three very important players in Borozan, Vujović and Božović and I just don’t see them being even close to Croatia tonight.
Last January, Mikkel Hansen, led Denmark to a world title. It was the most dominating national team performance ever in a major competition. We probably won’t see that again, but even if they play a peg or two lower it should still mean a European Championship for them.
The 2020 EHF Men’s European Handball Championships start Thursday 9 January. Here’s some info on how to watch, what the odds are, and a few predictions on who will in it all.
How to Watch
All matches will be available for viewing on efhTV, the European Handball Federation (EHF) online web streaming platform. Availability, however, might be restricted in nations that have a TV network contract. Depending on how each contract is structured some matches on ehfTV might be geo-blocked in some countries.
In the U.S. the beIN Sports network has the TV rights and will be showing one match daily on a delayed basis starting Friday, 17 January at 8:00 PM (US ET). All matches will also be shown live on their web streaming platform beIN Sports Connect.
Some matches will also be shown live on their FREE channel, beIN Sports XTRA, which is available on the Roku Channel and “Over the Air” in 15 U.S. markets. More info: Link
Spoiler Free Links
As with other recent tournaments I will be posting links to the on demand videos for matches as they become available. And, I will be doing so with “spoiler free” posts. Hey, if you like watching games with the outcome known you’re more more than welcome to access other sites directly.
IMPORTANT STEPS TO FOLLOW FOR “SPOILER FREE” ON DEMAND VIDEO WATCHING: 1) Cover up the right half of your screen 2) Click on the desired “On Demand” video link in my daily preview post 3) Watch the short advertisement 4) Click on the full screen icon in the lower right hand corner of the video 5) Enjoy the match “spoiler free”
Note: If you don’t follow these instructions you will be exposed to the menu on the right side of your screen that may include words like “Netherlands shocks Germany in Opener!” (I’m not saying that’s going to happen, just that if it did happen, you can bet there would be a headline stating that.) Also, remember that if you click out of full screen mode you should also cover up the right side since that menu will immediately appear.
Tourney Format: The European Championships have expanded from 16 to 24 teams. This means that several teams that often just missed out on qualification like the Netherlands, Latvia and Switzerland were able to book at ticket. In the preliminary stage the 24 teams have been divided up into six groups of four nations each. Only 2 teams will advance from each group… meaning half the teams will be sent home in the first few days of competition.
After the preliminary groups the top 2 teams from Groups A, B and C will form Main Round Group I and the top 2 teams from Groups D, E and F will form Main Round Group II. The top two teams from Groups I and II will then qualify for the semifinals.
Group A’s matches will take place in Graz, Austria and one can probably expect good crowds traveling from Croatia and Serbia. Croatia is an overwhelming favorite to advance while Serbia and Belarus will likely battle for the 2nd slot. Stregspiller Group A Preview: Link
Group B’s matches will be in Vienna, Austria. This is arguably the weakest preliminary round group and appears to be set up to help ensure that one of the co-hosts, Austria, advances to the main round. Arguably, every side here stands a decent chance of making it to the Main Round… where they will be long shots to make the semifinals. Stregspiller Group B preview: Link
Group C will be played in Trondheim, Norway and will be the only group without a host country or nearby pseudo-host. Spain and Germany are big favorites to advance, but the Netherlands and Latvia both might have something to say about that. The Netherlands Men have been waiting a long time to make a statement in a major competition while Latvia’s Dainis Kristopans is one of the world’s best right backs. If things do play out according to plan the Spain – Germany match scheduled for Saturday will be huge as that match will carry over to Main Round play. Heck, that match might even decide who advances to the semifinals. Stregspiller Group C preview: Link
The top two teams from Groups A, B and C will make their way to Vienna for Main Round Group Play where on paper it will be a 3 way battle between Spain, Germany and Croatia for the two semifinal spots.
France and Norway are the favorites to advance but Portugal is an up and coming program. They even beat France 33-27 in a Euro qualification match. Which is a good thing in that they know they can topple France, but a bad thing in that sneaking up on France in the opening match seems unlikely. Barring a Portuguese surprise, the France – Norway match on Sunday, 12 January could have huge implications as it will carry forward into main round. France will be favored, but Norway will have the home crowd in Trondheim behind them. Stregspiller Group D Preview: Link
Group E will be played in Malmo, Sweden which is just cross the bridge from Copenhagen, so it will a pseudo home court advantage for Denmark. As if, the reigning World Champions need extra help. Iceland, Hungary and Russia will battle for the second spot. Stregspiller Group E Preview: Link
Group F will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden so the hosts are all but guaranteed to advance. Slovenia are solid favorites to be the #2, but Switzerland and Andy Schmid might have something to say about that. Stregspiller Group F Preview: Link
Main Round Group II will take place in Malmo and should be really entertaining and compelling to watch. Four teams, Denmark, France, Sweden and Norway will battle for the 2 spots and there will be multiple key clashes every match day.
The oddsmakers favor Denmark and I don’t see a whole lot of reasons to disagree with them not winning it. Last January’s performance at the World Championships was one of the most dominating ever by a national team. I’m not predicting such a repeat performance, but even if they take it down a notch they should still win.
For 2nd place I will go with France. Nikola Karabatic is showing some age, but he’s more healthy than he was last year. That, coupled with quite the stable of young talent should see the French improve upon recent performances.
For 3rd place I’ll go with Germany. Perhaps they lack the name star to lead them to victory, but a team effort particularly on defense could well see them through.
Goalkeeper, Silvia Navarro and Spain will battle the Netherlands for Gold. Both nations are hoping to secure their first world championship. (Photo: Stregspiller.com)
The IHF Women’s World Championships finish up on Sunday with bronze and gold medal matches. Both matches will be broadcast in the U.S. on a tape delayed basis on the NBC Olympic Channel on Sunday afternoon. Fans, that don’t want to wait, however, can watch the Olympic Channel Web Stream (either live or delayed). Both matches are also available on the IHF web stream, but depending on where you live you may need to use VPN.
Sunday, 15 December All Times Local (CET is -8 hrs / US ET is -14 hrs) Odds courtesy of Nordic Bet
NBC TV Schedule: Link How to watch the matches not on NBC: Link
17:30 Bronze Medal Match: Norway vs Russia (-1) (With Commentary from Paul Bray) – Match airs (delayed) in the U.S on the NBC Olympic Channel at 4:00 PM (US ET) – Olympic Channel Video Link (No VPN Required in U.S.) – IHF Website Video Link (VPN Required for some countries) – IHF Match Preview: Link
Hey, wait a second… Wasn’t this was supposed to the the gold medal match? It sure was. Both nations were favored in the semifinal, but came up short. Russia narrowly lost to the Netherlands, 33-32, while Norway played a lackluster match and was dominated by Spain, 28-22. Now playing for bronze it will be interesting to see how both teams respond after such a let down.
My money is on Russia and right back, Anna Vyakhireva. You wouldn’t know by looking at her short stature, 5’6″, but I think she might be the best women’s player in the world now. Certainly, the top passer. Check out this assist compilation: Link. Clever and quick she seems to play a role in most of Russia’s goals. Either by scoring, assisting or doing something that sets up the offensive opportunity one pass later.
20:30 Netherlands (-.5) vs Spain (With commentary from Paul Bray) – Match airs (delayed) in the U.S on the NBC Olympic Channel at 5:30 PM (US ET) on Sunday; Also airs on Tuesday at 10:30 PM (US ET) on the NBC Sports Network – Olympic Channel On Demand Video Link (No VPN Required in U.S.) (posted after the match) – IHF Website Video Link (VPN Required for some countries) – IHF Match Preview: Link
Well, anyone who predicted this as the final coming into the tournament is either a genius or lucky. The Netherlands was 16 to 1 to win the title and Spain was a 33 to 1 long shot.
Spain played consistently for the most part in the preliminary and main rounds, but seemed done for after their last main round match, a comprehensive 36-26 loss to Russia. But, thanks to Montenegro’s defeat of Sweden they got a backdoor entry into the semifinals. And, they didn’t look back. They broke open a close semifinal match (13-13 at halftime) with a dominating performance that shut down Norway offensively on the way to a 28-22 win.
The Netherlands also needed help just to make the semifinals. Fortunately, for them, Norway beat Germany, giving them a back door entry. And, like Spain, they took advantage of the opportunity given to them, beating Russia, 33-32. In doing so, they were also the first team to give the Russians a 60 minute game. The Netherlands have been very consistent in their major tournament performance with a semifinal berth in the last 3 WC, last 2 EC and the 2016 Olympics. But, while consistent they’ve yet to win a title. I’m thinking that may very well change with this World Championship.
Side note: While located in Europe, the Netherlands is not what one would call a “Handball Nation.” There are some clubs in the Netherlands, but it is not nearly as popular or as professional of a sport as it is in Germany, Denmark or France. And, their success may have elements from which nations like the U.S. can draw upon. For more on this topic check out this podcast from 2016
Podcast: Netherlands Women’s Handball: How their 10 year development plan has vaulted them into the world’s elite: Link
Drew Donlin and Ademar Leon Take on Barcelona at 1:00 PM (US ET)
It’s a rest day for the Women’s World Championships. It’s also one of the deadest Saturdays of the year for U.S. sports fans. The college bowl games haven’t started yet, so all that’s on TV is Army vs Navy and some college basketball.
However, there are other options, including an American handball player taking the court against one of the best handball clubs in the world. Really? (Yes, really). Drew Donlin and his club, Ademar Leon will be playing Barcelona at 1:00 PM (US ET) in the semifinals of the ASOBAL cup in Valladolid, Spain.
Dinah Eckerle and Germany must win in order to keep their Olympic hopes alive. (Photo: www.stregspiller.com)
Friday is a big day with two semifinal matches to be broadcast in the U.S. on a tape delayed basis on the NBC Olympic Channel. Fans, that don’t want to wait, however, can watch the Olympic Channel Web Stream (either live or delayed). All matches, including the placement matches, where Germany is in a must situation for Olympic Qualification are also available on the IHF website, but depending on where you live you may need to use VPN.
Friday, 13 December All Times Local (CET is -8 hrs / US ET is -14 hrs) Odds courtesy of Bet365
NBC TV Schedule: Link How to watch the matches not on NBC: Link
11:30 Serbia (-.5) vs Montenegro – IHF Website Video Link (VPN Required for some countries)
This match for 5th place between neighbors has only limited importance as both nations have definitely qualified for one of three separate Olympic Qualification Tournaments. The result of this match will just determine which tournament (#2 or #3) they will be placed in. As of now, it’s pretty uncertain as to which tournament will have a stronger field and present a tougher path to the Olympics meaning there isn’t a whole lot to play for beyond pride.
14:30 Germany (-1) vs Sweden (With commentary from Paul Bray) – IHF Website Video Link (VPN Required for some countries) – IHF Match Preview: Link
On Wednesday, both Germany and Sweden were in a position to make the semifinals. However, they both lost so instead of playing for a medal, they are now playing for 7th place. And, Germany, is now playing for Olympic qualification. Sweden, by virtue of their performance at the 2018 European Championships has already earned a slot for Olympic Qualification Tournament (Tourney #2).
However, Sweden also has something to play for as the winner of this match will be placed into Olympic Qualification Tourney #1. And, unlike tourneys #2 and #3 this tourney is highly desirable to be in since it will include only 2 European Teams fighting for the 2 Olympic slots. Nothing against Argentina and Senegal, but they will clearly be a less formidable foe than either Hungary or Romania. Translation: The winner of this match will qualify for the Olympics with at least 95% certainty.
17:30 Netherlands vs Russia (-3.5) (With Commentary from Paul Bray) – Match airs (delayed) in the U.S on the NBC Olympic Channel at 2:30 PM (US ET) – Olympic Channel Video Link (No VPN Required in U.S.) – IHF Website Video Link (VPN Required for some countries) – Olympic Channel Live Stream: Link – IHF Match Preview: Link
Russia has been on roll and very impressive so far in this tournament. Really, nobody has threatened them. On Wednesday they demolished Spain 36-26. No team has come closer than 7 goals. The Netherlands has played well, but still has three blemishes on their record. In the preliminary round they lost by 6 to Slovenia (which failed to make the main round end up in 19th place) Then in the Main Round they lost to Germany and Denmark, but still managed to squeak through to the semifinal with 6 points. They will need to step up their game if they are to have any hope of stopping Russia.
20:30 Norway (-3.5) vs Spain (With commentary from Paul Bray) – Match airs (delayed) in the U.S on the NBC Olympic Channel at 10:00 PM (US ET) – Olympic Channel Video Link (No VPN Required in U.S.) – IHF Website Video Link (VPN Required for some countries) – Olympic Channel Live Stream: Link – IHF Match Preview: Link
On paper this match should be more interesting than the first semifinal. Norway has played consistently with only a 30-28 loss to the Netherlands. Consistent, but they haven’t been overpowering teams the way Russia has. Spain has also played well, but the heavy loss to Russia and their collapse vs Sweden (a nine goal lead that ended as a draw) would seem to indicate that they are just one Norwegian run of several unanswered goals from being taken out of the match.
